Nice To Meet You
Emily Thompson
Founder & Principal Designer (A.T.)
Emily is a 2017 graduate of the Architectural Technology program at SAIT and the founder of Alba Design Studio. From the beginning of her career, she knew she wanted to launch her own firm—but first, she focused on gaining experience. Over the years, Emily worked with a range of custom home builders and design firms in both Calgary and Kelowna, developing a deep understanding of residential design and construction. That journey eventually led her to start Alba, where she now channels her expertise into creating thoughtful, personalized homes for her clients.
Emily is proud to be an award-winning designer, with one of her projects receiving a 2024 BILD Calgary award. She is also the designer behind the 2026 lottery home, set to open to the public next year. Her work is rooted in the belief that great design is a team effort, and she places a strong emphasis on collaboration throughout every project. What drives Emily most is the opportunity to connect with her clients—learning about their lifestyle, understanding their needs, and designing homes that not only reflect who they are but also make everyday living more beautiful and functional.
Whether you’re building your forever home or planning a renovation, Emily is passionate about helping you create a space that feels uniquely yours.
Emily is proud to be an award-winning designer, with one of her projects receiving a 2024 BILD Calgary award. She is also the designer behind the 2026 lottery home, set to open to the public next year. Her work is rooted in the belief that great design is a team effort, and she places a strong emphasis on collaboration throughout every project. What drives Emily most is the opportunity to connect with her clients—learning about their lifestyle, understanding their needs, and designing homes that not only reflect who they are but also make everyday living more beautiful and functional.
Whether you’re building your forever home or planning a renovation, Emily is passionate about helping you create a space that feels uniquely yours.
Duke
Chief Happiness Officer (CHO)
Meet Duke, our Chief Happiness Officer. With a wagging tail and a heart full of joy, Duke takes his job very seriously, ensuring every client leaves with a smile (and maybe a little dog hair). Whether he’s greeting guests at the door, snoozing in meetings, or accepting belly rubs as compensation, Duke brings pawsitive vibes to the office every day. He’s living his best life as a corporate dog and wouldn’t trade it for all the bones in the world.
The Meaning Behind Alba
The name Alba is deeply personal and rooted in heritage. In the Scottish language of Gaelic, Alba translates to “Scotland,” a nod to Emily’s family background. While Gaelic isn’t widely spoken now, its meaning and cultural significance remain powerful, and choosing this name was a way to honor those roots.
For Emily, family has always been central to her life and her work. Naming the firm Alba reflects not only where she comes from, but also what she values most: creating homes where families can feel connected, grounded, and inspired. It’s a name that speaks to legacy, belonging, and the lasting impact of thoughtful design.